Insurance Blog

Myths & Facts About Pumping Gas

For some reason, pumping gas tends to produce a lot of misconceptions.

For instance, many people mistakenly believe that filling up in the morning at the day’s lowest temperature can put more gas in your tank. For the facts on this myth and others, continue reading.

Facts and myths at a glance

• Don't smoke while pumping gas.
• Avoid distractions like texting while fueling.
• Stay outside your vehicle whenever possible.
• Don't top off your tank.
• Premium fuel only helps cars designed for it.
• Keep your tank above one-quarter full.
• Filling up on cold mornings won't save money.

FAQs

Is it safe to smoke at the pump?

Findings point to: NO

The American Petroleum Institute, the Petroleum Equipment Institute and safety officials across the country agree that you shouldn’t smoke while you’re pumping gas.

Gasoline is a flammable liquid, and there’s always a risk when you’re around it. However, the primary danger at the pump is not the gas itself but the gas vapors. Because these vapors are heavier than air, they can combust if they encounter anything flammable such as a smoldering cigarette butt, hot pavement or even a static spark. These can all turn into a very dangerous recipe for disaster.

Not only is smoking at a gas pump risky, it also may be against the law depending on where you’re fueling up. States have different fines or penalties for smoking at (or within a specified distance of) a gas pump. So, the next time you’re refueling, pay attention to the safety signs around you.

The takeaway: Drivers should follow the sage advice of the American Petroleum Institute: “Do not smoke, light matches or lighters while refueling at the pump or when using gasoline anywhere else.”

Should you use your cell phone at the pump?

Findings point to: NO

But it may not be for the reason you’d expect. It is true that static electricity has the potential to cause an unexpected flash fire at the gas pump. And while the likelihood of this danger is low, it’s still a real threat.

However, according to the Petroleum Equipment Institute, there has not been a documented case of a cell phone being the culprit of this type of fire. Rather, the issue here boils down to being distracted.

According to the National Association of Convenience and Fuel Retailing, there have been incidents where a driver on their cell phone has driven away with the fuel nozzle still in their vehicle, thereby damaging their car and the pump.

The takeaway: The phone call, text message and scrolling through your Instagram feed can wait while you refuel.

Is it safe to go back into your car when refueling?

Findings point to: NO

You build up static electricity when you go in and out of your car. This is especially likely when the weather is cold and dry. And that built-up energy wants to go somewhere. According to the American Petroleum Institute, touching the pump handle without discharging that static could potentially start a flash fire.

The takeaway: Stay outside your vehicle until you’re done filling up. (If the weather is less than ideal, make sure you’re wearing proper clothing to ward off the elements.) If you absolutely have to get into your car while you’re refueling, touch the exterior metal of your car before you grab the pump; doing so will help discharge any static electricity you may have picked up on the car seat.

Do you get more gas on a cold morning?

Findings point to: NO

Some believe that you’ll get more gas if you fuel up in the morning because the lower temperature will cause the volume of fuel to drop and its density to increase, which they argue could save you money. This is fair science when dealing with liquids and cold temperatures. But when it comes to the gasoline you pump into your vehicle, the logic isn’t as easily applicable, and it all has to do with the way that gas is stored.

Because the supply tanks for gas pumps sit far underground, gasoline temperatures rarely change. So, you could essentially fill up during an ice storm and it wouldn’t do much to the density of the fuel in the supply tanks.

The takeaway: Don’t bother getting up at 4 or 5 a.m. just to get gas (unless you’re already out and about). Fill up at whatever time is convenient for you. And read more about fuel economy to learn tips and tricks to get better gas mileage.

Is it bad to “top off” your tank?

Findings point to: YES

Trying to squeeze in a few extra pumps of gas can cause more damage than you might think. First, you’re paying for more gas than you need. Second, frequently topping off could actually harm your vehicle. According to GasBuddy, when you overfill your fuel tank regularly, it can cause damage to your EVAP system, which helps your vehicle process extra gas vapors. So, in the end, you could wind up with some pretty costly repair bills. Are those few extra pumps worth it?

The takeaway: When you hear the nozzle click and the pump stops, you should stop too.

Is premium gas better than regular?

Findings point to: IT DEPENDS

Cars are designed to run best with a specific type of fuel. A higher-octane premium gas won’t ignite as quickly, which explains why high-performance cars with high-compression engines often require higher-octane gas. This specialized fuel helps the engine work more efficiently while emitting less exhaust.

It is important to choose the correct type of fuel for your specific car. Using the right octane level can help your car run at its maximum efficiency and can prevent damage to your engine. Read about the differences between premium and regular gas to learn more.

The takeaway: Running a lower-octane fuel than your car requires will cause its performance to suffer, but a higher-octane fuel is unlikely to bring any added benefits. Your owner’s manual will explain what type of gas is best for your car, or you can look inside your fuel door which should have a sticker specifying your car’s fuel requirements.

Is driving on empty bad?

Findings point to: YES

Everyone knows (or should know) that running out of gas will cause your car to stall. But driving on empty can create even more damage below the surface. It can clog your fuel filter, damage your fuel pump and cause your engine to misfire, all of which can lead to a lot more problems down the road.

The takeaway: While every vehicle’s fuel consumption is different (as are each person’s driving habits), it’s recommended to keep your tank at least one-quarter full at all times.

Looking after you

It’s nice to have someone in your life who has your best interests at heart. Your insurance company should be as reliable as your best friend, someone you can count on. At ERIE, we’ll be there when you need us, and we’ll get you back on your way right away. Learn more about auto insurance from ERIE or talk to your local ERIE agent to discover the many ways we take care of our customers.

Posted on 5 July 2026 | 5:00 pm

Grilling Safety Tips for Propane, Charcoal and Gas Grills

Grilling food outside is a classic summer pastime but it’s not without risk. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), grills are involved in more than 10,000 home fires per year. This guide helps explain common grilling risks, shares best safety practices and outlines the steps you can take in an emergency.

Where should you place your grill?

Placing your grill in an open, well-ventilated area away from your home is critical to a safe grilling experience. Your grill should also sit on a flat, level surface in a space far from pets or small children. Keep these tips in mind as you determine the best spot for your grill:

• Keep it outside. Propane and charcoal grills should always be used outdoors, never inside or even in a garage.
• Find a level fireproof spot. Using your grill on an incline could cause it to roll or tip over, and wooden decks can easily catch fire.
• Give it space. Avoid placing your grill near your home and deck railings, or underneath eaves and awnings.
• Watch it carefully. Never leave your grill unattended.
• Don’t move a lit grill. After your grill is lit, don’t attempt to move it to another location. Moving a lit grill risks burning yourself or others.

How to stay safe using a gas grill

Whether powered by propane or natural gas, gas grills demand that you pay special attention to critical components such as the fuel lines, connections and burners. Even before turning on the gas, you’ll want to take notice of your grill’s condition and make sure both the gas source and the grill itself are in good shape, as damage can cause fires or other problems.

Here’s what you’ll want to look out for:

• Check for leaks. At the start of the season, ensure there are no gas leaks by applying a soapy water solution to your gas tank and hose connections. If you see bubbles rising from any connection points or smell gas, turn the grill off and get it serviced before using.
• Watch out for rust. Remove surface rust on grill grates before you start cooking with the grill. If any parts such as the burners or tanks are heavily rusted, get them replaced.
• Open the lid. Make sure the lid is open when lighting your gas grill. A closed lid can allow gas to build up inside the grill, which can lead to a flash burn.
• Keep your distance. When lighting your burners, don’t lean over the grill..
• Turn off the gas. After you’ve finished cooking, remember to turn off the propane — at the grill and the tank shutoff. If you ever smell gas after the grill has been turned off, call your local fire department.

How to stay safe using a charcoal grill

Charcoal users swear by the distinct, smoky flavor it gives to food, but these grills can be a little more complicated and have a slightly different set of safety rules than their gas counterparts. Since they rely on heating briquettes until they become ashy gray with a glowing red outline, charcoal grills can be difficult to control the exact temperature. Using this type of grill also requires some patience, as charcoal takes about 20 minutes to reach cooking temps and won’t turn off immediately once you’re done.

To start fires, many grillers use lighter fluid. But this method requires caution, as it must be designed specifically for a charcoal grill and not added once you’ve lit the charcoal. Here are a few more safety items you’ll want to keep in mind when using a charcoal grill:

• Consider a safer fire starter. Safer alternatives to lighter fluid include metal chimney starters, which use newspaper as a fire source, and solid fire starters made from flammable wax or wood. Electric starters work well, too, but don’t use one in wet weather.
• Go easy on the lighter fluid. Let the charcoal soak up the fluid before lighting. And never use gasoline or other flammable liquids.
• Control your vents. Charcoal grills need oxygen to burn. So keep your vents open when cooking and close them to extinguish the flame.
• Let it cool. Give your grill enough time to cool down completely before covering it.
• Safely dispose of coals and ashes. Before cleaning out your ashes and charcoal, let them cool for 48 hours. If you need to clean out your grill sooner than that, wrap the ashes in aluminum foil and soak them with water. Then, dispose of them in a non-combustible container.

How to put out a grill fire

Grill fires are different from regular fires. They are essentially the same as a grease fire that occurs in your kitchen. Because of the oil that’s involved, spraying it down with a hose is not a good idea. Instead, you’ll want to follow these steps:

• Never use water. Using water to extinguish the flames will just lead to an explosion of burning grease.
• Use a fire extinguisher. The best way to put out a grill fire is by using a multi-purpose fire extinguisher. Keep it nearby and make sure it’s been tested and inspected recently.
• Smother the flame. If you don’t have a fire extinguisher on hand, smother the flame by cutting off the supply of oxygen. You can do this by closing the lid and grill vents. Spreading baking soda on the flame can also help put it out.

How to store and maintain your grill

Proper storage and maintenance is essential to keeping your grill in a safe state. In fact, most grill fires can be prevented with a little bit of maintenance. Here is what you’ll want to pay attention to:

• Keep drip trays and grill grates clean. If your grill has a drip pan or tray, get in the habit of regularly cleaning out the fat, grease and oil that collects there. And brush off your grates to help prevent a possible fire hazard while keeping your grill from rusting.
• Use a cover. Use a weatherproof cover to help keep dirt and moisture out during wet and snowy weather.
• Store propane safely. When your grill is out of use for long periods of time, it’s best to fully disconnect the propane tank. If you decide to store your grill indoors for the winter, be sure to leave the gas tank outside, as propane should never be stored indoors.

What to do in an emergency

The same rules for any emergency still apply: stay calm, provide basic first aid and comfort others while help arrives. Should a grill fire specifically occur, here are the steps you’ll want to take:

• Use a safe and trusted method to attempt to stop the fire. Using a multi-purpose fire extinguisher, try to put out the flames as quickly as possible.
• Call 911. If you can’t put out the fire, call for help immediately. House fires spread quickly, so the faster you get professional help, the less damage it will do.
• Treat any injuries. Each year, nearly 20,000 people visit an emergency room because of grill-related injuries. For minor burns, run cool water over the area, cover it with a sterile non-adhesive bandage and take an over-the-counter pain reliever. For more serious injuries, see a doctor immediately.
• Assess the property damage. After the fire is out and any injuries have been treated, evaluate how much your property has been damaged. Take photos to document the damage. Your Erie Insurance agent can help you decide whether to file an insurance claim and guide you through the claims process if you do.

FAQs

Besides a fire, what other risks can a grill pose?

A grill placed in a poorly ventilated area could result in carbon monoxide poisoning, while those placed too close to homes can melt vinyl siding—even if a fire doesn’t break out.

What if I can’t get a burner to light?

If you can’t get a burner to light, turn off the grill and wait at least five minutes before trying again. Also be sure to check if the propane tank is empty or if the valve is closed.

How often should I clean my grill?

You’ll want to brush or scrape off the grates on a gas grill each time you’re finished cooking. You should also heat the grill to burn off excess food. Deep cleaning should be performed once or twice a year, while drip pans should be cleaned every couple of uses.

For charcoal grills, you need to remove all leftover charcoal and ash after each use and also deep cleaned at least once or twice per year depending on your use.

What food safety rules should I keep in mind?

To ensure food safety and minimize your risk of foodborne illness, prevent cross-contamination by using different trays and utensils for raw meats and vegetables. Meat should also reach safe internal temperatures:

• Poultry should reach 165 degrees
• Whole cuts of beef, pork and lamb: 145 degrees.
• Ground beef, pork and lamb: 160 degrees
• Fish: 145 degrees

And never leave food sitting our in warm weather for more than an hour.

Protect what matters most

As a homeowner, you can take steps to ensure both your house and family are well protected. In addition to following these grilling safety tips, make sure you also have the right homeowners insurance coverage. For a fast, free coverage check, contact an ERIE agent in your neighborhood today.

Posted on 29 June 2026 | 5:00 pm

What to Do If Your Car Catches On Fire?

Car fires are uncommon but dangerous events that can quickly start and spread in a matter of minutes. By being prepared and acting quickly to evacuate your vehicle and get help, you stand the best chance of protecting yourself and your family.

Many fires are caused by accidents, mechanical malfunctions or electrical problems and can be prevented. Here’s what you need to know about how car fires get started – and what you should do if you ever encounter one.

Why do cars catch on fire?

According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), there are about 200,000 vehicle fires each year in the United States – causing nearly $2 billion in property damage and claiming hundreds of lives.

Vehicles can catch fires due to many reasons. They include:

• Mechanical failure: According to the NFPA, mechanical failures and malfunctions are the leading cause of vehicle fires. This can include the failure of an electrical component, like faulty wiring or a bad battery. Or it could be caused by a broken line that carries gas or oil to your vehicle’s engine.
• Collisions: During a collision, damaged vehicles can leak fluids that become fuel for a fire. While NFPA data shows that accidents account for only 5% of car fires, accidents cause 63% of car fire deaths. This is because an accident can make it difficult to exit the vehicle, either due to injuries or damage to the car. 
• Poor maintenance: Three-quarters of highway vehicle fires caused by mechanical or electrical failures involve older cars. Often, issues like oil leaks and other neglected maintenance tasks are to blame.

What should I do if my car catches on fire?

A car fire can engulf your vehicle in a matter of minutes, so time is of the essence. If you find yourself in a vehicle that catches fire, follow these steps.

1. Pull over. Get your vehicle off the roadway and come to a complete stop as soon as possible.
2. Shut off the engine. Turning the vehicle off will stop the flow of gasoline to the engine. It also disables power to many of your car’s electrical components.
3. Get out of the car. Everyone in your vehicle should get out immediately. Once you leave, stay at least 100 feet from the car and do not return to get any personal items.
4. Call 911. Another motorist may have already called for emergency services. But you should always call yourself to ensure a fire truck is on its way.

Should I try to put out a car fire?

In most cases, no.

While it may be possible to stop a fire with a Class B or Class C fire extinguisher, most safety experts advise it’s best to just keep your distance and leave the job to the professionals.

Opening your car’s hood or trunk can increase the airflow to the fire, potentially making it grow. And many of your car’s parts can explode during a fire, which can send dangerous shrapnel in your direction.

What kind of damage can a car fire cause?

A fire can cause extensive damage to your vehicle in a short amount of time. According to the NFPA, about two-thirds of all car fires start in the engine compartment. That means there can be significant damage to the following components:

• Engine
• Transmission
• Electric systems
• Paint
• The car’s interior and ventilation systems due to smoke

Due to the extent of all this damage, most cars that catch fire are considered a total loss by insurance companies. Learn more about how a car is determined a “total loss.”

Will my auto insurance cover a car fire?

A car fire can be covered by your auto insurance. But it all depends on the type of coverage you have, as well as the circumstances of the fire.

If your car catches fire because of an auto accident, then the damage generally can be covered under your collision insurance. However, if a car fire occurs for reasons not related to an accident – for example, a lightning strike or vandalism – that’s when comprehensive insurance can cover the damage.

Questions about your specific policy? Talk to your local ERIE agent.

How can you prevent a car fire?

Of course, the best way to protect yourself from a car fire is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some tips:

• Maintain your vehicle. Nearly every fluid in your car is flammable. So don’t ignore that oil leak. Have your car regularly serviced by a professional mechanic and always get it checked out if it doesn’t seem to be running properly. (Related: What’s a Multi-Point Inspection, And When Do I Need One?)
• Be careful when transporting fuel. Whether you’re getting gasoline for the lawn mower or grabbing a new propane cylinder for the grill, it’s important to transport it safely. Gas should only be stored in a sealed, approved container. And fuels should never be carried in the passenger area of your vehicle.
• Watch where you park. The catalytic converter in your car’s exhaust system can reach temperatures of up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. So avoid parking in areas where something flammable, like dry grass or loose paper, can come in contact with the exhaust.

FAQ

How often do car fires occur?

According to the NFPA, U.S. fire departments responded to an annual average of 215,096 vehicle fires from 2018-2022.

Do electric vehicles catch fire often than gasoline vehicles?

According to a 2023 report from The Guardian,  electric vehicles are less likely to catch fire than gas-powered vehicles, though it acknowledges that these figures could change as more people drive EVs.

Are there warning signs that a car is at risk of catching fire?

Smoke, a burning smell, leaking fluids or loud noises coming from the exhaust system could be early warning signs and reason for you to pull over immediately, evacuate the vehicle and get help. A rapid engine temperature spike can also indicate that a fire might be igniting.

Is it safe to drive a car after a small fire?

No. If your vehicle has experienced any fire damage, have a qualified mechanic inspect it before it is driven again.

Can a parked car catch fire?

Yes. It is possible, though less likely, for a fire to ignite even after the engine has been turned off.

 A better day starts here

No one pencils a car mishap in their calendar. But when you experience an unlucky break, that’s when we shine. Brighter times are ahead when you call on Erie Insurance, because it’s our job to help you handle the unexpected and get things back to normal. Get in touch with a local ERIE agent in your neighborhood today for a free, no-obligation auto insurance quote.

Posted on 29 June 2026 | 5:00 pm

July 4 Driving: What to Expect on the Road

July 4 is a time to celebrate America’s independence—and a reminder of how much we depend on one another on the road.

Should you plan to travel by car for the holiday this year, you’ll likely have company on your drive. And if the volume of vehicles on the road isn’t a reason to drive with extra caution, distractions such as fireworks and an increase in alcohol consumption should be.

It’s no wonder why the Fourth ranks as one of the most dangerous driving days of the year. From 2020-2024, there were 2,719 people killed in motor vehicle traffic accidents during the July 4 period, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

By planning and taking precautions such as not driving at the busiest times, avoiding alcohol and driving with awareness, you can boost your chances of safely getting to and from your holiday destination. Here are some other things to keep in mind:

How can I avoid the peak rush?

According to AAA, an estimated 72 million Americans hit the road for the holiday in 2025. With the nation celebrating its 250^th anniversary and the fourth falling on a Saturday, this year’s turnout could be even bigger.

Avoiding peak driving times is a great way to ensure your trip is less stressful and rushed. According to INRIX, a transportation data analysis firm, the worst time to travel during the holiday period is from 2-7 p.m. on the Fourth. This is the time when you are most likely to encounter heavy traffic, which could delay your arrival time.

If possible, leave before noon to avoid peak travel times.

Likewise, if you’re driving home on the Fourth, plan on leaving earlier in the evening, as there will likely be more distractions on the road at night. Which brings us to…

What distractions should I be on the lookout for?

In addition to traffic, it’s important to be aware of other distractions you might encounter, especially at night, when fireworks dot the dark sky. No matter how loud or bright they are, keep your attention on the road and don’t let your eyes wander.

Smoke and debris from fireworks can also reduce visibility on the road, and the loud noises can cause frightened animals to bolt across roads.

In addition to fireworks, expect to see cookouts, yard games and on-street parking. This means you might have to contend with more kids, pets and unwitting pedestrians on the road. Stay patient and don’t get frustrated should you have to stop for them.

Finally, since the holiday occurs in the heart of summer, there’s a good chance there will be road construction.

While you will have anticipated and planned how to respond to these distractions, most drivers on the road won’t. So, drive at an appropriate speed and maintain a safe distance from others.

Alcohol and driving don’t mix

With a holiday that’s commonly associated with both drinking and hitting the road—like the Fourth of July—it’s not hard to imagine the risks.

If you plan on consuming alcohol, plan ahead! Either plan on staying over at the event location or arrange for a rideshare service, taxi or designated driver.

If you’re on the road, especially during peak driving time or at night, be prepared for any unexpected actions from other drivers. As alcohol can slow drivers’ coordination and reaction times as well as impair their ability to perceive objects on the road, it’s vital to practice defensive driving:

Be ready for other drivers’ unexpected actions. Take extra caution when approaching intersections by never assuming that other drivers are going to stop. Never text or use your cell phone while behind the wheel, as this can slow your reaction time.

Some localities may also set up sobriety checkpoints to deter drunk driving. If you encounter one, cooperate with courtesy by producing your driver’s license and insurance card.

How should I maintain my vehicle?

While properly maintaining your vehicle is always important, driving in a mass of cars in July heat makes this task even more vital. Before hitting the road, check your tires, lights, brakes and fluid levels.

If you haven’t yet this summer, have a professional technician look at your car’s air conditioning system. A marginally operating system can fail at any time in hot weather.

And if you haven’t looked at your car’s emergency kit for a while, make sure you’re stocked up on everything you’d need in the summer heat:

• Plenty of water
• Sunscreen, bug spray and a hat
• First Aid kit
• A blanket
• A flashlight

Your ERIE agent is just a phone call away

If anything happens to you on the road, you’re not alone.

Your local ERIE agent is your personal insurance advisor, ready to help when you need it most. Learn more about auto insurance or find a local agent near you.

Posted on 21 June 2026 | 5:00 pm

Could Your Business Keep Going After a Temporary Shutdown?

Posted on 10 June 2026 | 5:00 pm